Izzat Zainal Arifin
@bornd
Singaporean expat in Saudi Arabia
Forum posts
78
Contacts
3
About me
Singaporean
Lives in Riyadh, Ar Riyad
Speaks English, Malay, Arabic
Registration: 15 July 2012
Granada Compound Review by xlunce
I found a few old posts about this topic, but nothing recent. So I will open a new thread in the hopes that people might jump in and provide some reviews or feedback. We (family of 5) are looking into moving to Granada compound Riyadh soon. We ...
Thanks for the update. Do you have any idea on the price range? Read More
Opening a Post Box Account by johnkuriakose
For those who are looking for getting a Post Box Number of their own. Here is the porcedure: Go to you nearest Saudi Post Office. Please have your Building Number with you (4 digit Arabic number written on a green plate, on your building ...
is there any updated procedure? I checked their website and they are now online application. Do we still need to collect key/post card? Read More
International Driving Permit instead of Saudi License
Hello, Just need to know, is International Driving Permit (IDP) can be used in Saudi, riyadh respectively? It is a bit confusing as my friends has different experiences: 1) It is totally no. You need to convert the license to saudi license. 2) Yes ... Read More
Granada Compound Review by xlunce
I found a few old posts about this topic, but nothing recent. So I will open a new thread in the hopes that people might jump in and provide some reviews or feedback. We (family of 5) are looking into moving to Granada compound Riyadh soon. We ...
How much is the rental rate at here? Read More
This blog is for Malaysian license holder in KSA by vramakr
Dear all, If you are holding Malaysian driving license, you do not have to sit for test or whatsoever. You can get your license converted to KSA license easily. Steps: 1) Ask your company GR to help you and do not take agent as it will cut your ...
Actually, you can just apply for International Driving License from JPJ :) Not applicable to all country (there is a list) but If I remember correctly, Saudi is on the list. Just need to pay RM150. I've done before and drive in Kuwait without ... Read More
KL to Langkawi by bus
As long you get a ticket from counter, that should be fine or you can find a traveling agent that can arrange a visit for you :) Read More
Rent car in KL, what can I expect to pay? by kentonell
Hi, I have contacted a couple of local companys and asked for a quote on a 1-year lease (including full insuranse) on a compact local car. The "best" quotes so far are: Perodua Kembara Auto year make 2005 RM 1500/month Perodua Myvi Auto year make ...
The price should be great. If it is KLCC, I suggest that you to find a "compact car". And If you can ride a bike, I suggest you to take one.. rather than driving. Read More
Malaysian language studies in KL? by kentonell
Hi, A bit delayed, but in October we are relocating from Thailand to Malaysia. Me myself am employed by a HK based company, so my days are fully booked. My wife on the other hand will need to find something to fill up her days with as our son will ...
If you are planning to use the language just as conversation, I suggest that you mix around with Malays instead of having a formal class. Since there are a lot of differences. Ie, "How are you?" which in Malay "Apa khabar?" which formally ... Read More
Advices on Cost of living by PabloKualaLumpur
Hi, my name is Pablo and Im 26 years old with master degree in administration. I have several years of experience in hospitality. Im moving to KL in January 2013. Im a single (not married), but im planning to bring my gf there soon. I get the ...
To answer your question: only for one month yes? is that correct? Yes i understand that if she want to stay longer, she has to go to singapour every month and extend the visa for next one month yes? Yes if there is other solution that she can ... Read More
Advices on Cost of living by PabloKualaLumpur
Hi, my name is Pablo and Im 26 years old with master degree in administration. I have several years of experience in hospitality. Im moving to KL in January 2013. Im a single (not married), but im planning to bring my gf there soon. I get the ...
Please find my answer 1. What are the approximate costs of accommodation per month, for 1 bedroom apartment/condominium with kitchen in the city center or 15 minutes from the petronas towers.? Can i find something simple for abouve 1.500MYR? - This ... Read More
Looking for an integration course in KL /learn Malay by Dianaa
Hello everybody! I just arrived to KL where I am going to live for at least 4 years and I am looking for an integration course to the coutry in KL. I think it's really important to know the differents cultures living here to be able to adapt ...
I can help for free. But unfortunately, due to my work commitment, I only available during weekends :( Read More
Confusion about Malaysian proper names by chimen
Sorry if I post this to the wrong place but I'm helpless and can't find any English forum that have many Malaysian to get help. My problem is, I'm reading some Malaysian scholars' papers and decide to cite their works. However, I get confused with ...
In Malaysia, people are not calling others with the surname/family name. Unlike westerner, if your name is Jim and your surname is Carey, your father will be sharing same surname - ie Alex Carey. But in Malaysia, if your fullname is Osman Muda, ... Read More
Vacation trip next week by s4r4h
Need an idea for a vacation trip next week. A group trip perhaps?
Depend on what kind of holiday do you wish :) Read More
investing in real estate for a by Mike_Montreal
Hi fellows, I have read here and around that it was possible for a foreigner to get a legal status (WP? Residence? VISA?) by investing in real estate for rental purpose. Does anyone here have advices or testimony? Even a good link about this ? I am ...
There is another solution is to setup/buy a sleep company here. And 'hire' yourself as director/employee. I can give you a detail if you are interested to know more. I will need to recheck if its still applicable since I've left the area for few ... Read More
New to Petaling Jaya by Vany89
Hello! I arrived in Petaling Jaya yesterday and I am now looking for people to hang out with. Is anybody living there or are you all located in Kuala Lumpur? :)
Section 17 should be about near the college there :) You may want to hang out to one utama. Just about 15 minute driving. Read More
Sailing in Kuwait
Yes it is exists. Contact the through here: sail-kosa@live.com Read More
Working in Sharq (downtown) and looking housing in nearby district
Please check behind hyatt hotel. A lot of apartment there Read More
Cost of Living in Kuwait by arindamghosh007
Dear Friends, I am an Indian senior HR professional with rich 20 years of international corporate exposure. I have got a job offer from Al-Kuwait and the salary is KD 2000 PM all inclusive HRA, TA. Internet, 2 Mobile connections are free. Well, ...
It is good salary if it is just base salary. Otherwise, you may want to reject it. Read More
Cost of Living In KL by kumar2012
Hii This is Kumar here from India. I am Mech Engg with approximately 9 yrs experience. Recently I got a job offer from a company in KL. I will be staying with my wife..no kids. My office in situated close to Jalan Tun Razak approximately 3.3 ...
These place should be consider high class apartment. I cannot suggest anything as everyone have their own preference. You might want to come a view yourself before decide. :) Read More
How much salary i shall ask to the employer?
It is depend on where you work. But an expat suppose not to recieve below 5000rm Read More
Paying A Driver
it is depend on how negotiation go and how far you travel :) Read More
Urgent - Closing of Roads: 15th October 2012
Closure of certain roads from Kuwait international airport to Bayan Palace between 10 am and 2 pm and from 4:30pm to 9 pm. The roads include Riyadh street from Kuwait city to the airport from which traffic will be diverted to the fifth ring road ... Read More
Live in malasiya by Saf84
Hi i want to Know the requirment for a french citizen in order to live in malasiya and if it is easy to find a job
Your question is a bit confusing.. let have a quick check: 1) You are FIRST YEAR medical student from university in France, am I correct? 2) You are planning to continue study in medical field here with part time job. I would say, if you are ... Read More
Live in malasiya by Saf84
Hi i want to Know the requirment for a french citizen in order to live in malasiya and if it is easy to find a job
Unfortunately no. Unless you have certificates to prove your skills Read More
Is it just me or foreigners have no opportunites whatsoever here ? by Reemz
I have been hunting for jobs for more than 3 months now and i have been called to a dozen of interviews yet no positive feedback whatsoever, i mean it is just frustrating how people are just so nice to you on the interview and then they just bail ...
I'll simply put like this. Here is all about reference. I myself get into my company through reference of other company. However, no payment or bribe needed. In Malaysia, anything is about the matter of trust. But for your skills, it is just a ... Read More
Budget for accommodation by stylon
Hello, We are about to shift in Kuala Lumpur in Puchong area. Can you advise if it is a good area for living and how much budget we should expect for a good 2-bedroom flat accommodation. Your advises will be very highly appreciated.
Hello. Puchong should be ok to stay. Around that area, you may expect about rm1k - 1.5k for 2 bedroom Read More
Cost of Living in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by mayura105
Hi, I am from Mumbai, India. I recently received a job offer from a banking firm in kuala lumpur, malaysia. The firm is offering me 5000MYR+Allowances. Currently, I am single but would be getting married in another 8 Months and would be shifting ...
1) Is it affordable to stay in Kuala Lumpur with this pay check. Yes. If it is just a base salary. 2) What are the tax deductions that happen. Tax deduction is normally handle by company. Check hasil.gov.my 3) What would be the closet and affordable ... Read More
Cost of Living In KL by kumar2012
Hii This is Kumar here from India. I am Mech Engg with approximately 9 yrs experience. Recently I got a job offer from a company in KL. I will be staying with my wife..no kids. My office in situated close to Jalan Tun Razak approximately 3.3 ...
Hello Kumar, 1) Car: I myself an expat worked in Malaysia. Yes, it is not easy to get a loan for foreigner. You will need a local guarantor for this. And with no credit records from you in Malaysia, it should drag a bit. You may want to ask you ... Read More
DOCUMENTARY FILMING IN NATIONAL PARK , PAHANG
When is it? Would like to have a trip if it is suitable time. I am malay foreigner (singaporean).. can still participate? hehe.. Read More
Live in malasiya by Saf84
Hi i want to Know the requirment for a french citizen in order to live in malasiya and if it is easy to find a job
There are 3 types of EP in Malaysia; An employment pass applies to investors, skilled workers, professionals, and senior management in companies. The minimum employment period required is two years. A temporary employment visit pass is for ... Read More
is there anyone who has extra rooms in their apartment to be rented ?
Hi Mitha, I believe based on your situation, you may rent a house by yourself. You may get a house around 400 - 500/month for 2 bedroom. If for furnished, you may want to look for homestay. But It is normally a place outside of the city (village ... Read More
Advice needed for a condo and school
I would say 3000rm for a condo should be enough but try a negotiation as normally landlord tend to rise a price for westerner. Or you may try to find area near hartamas, bandar damansara ampang.. etc.. The 'skytrain' that available to KLCC is ... Read More
Cost of Living In KL by kumar2012
Hii This is Kumar here from India. I am Mech Engg with approximately 9 yrs experience. Recently I got a job offer from a company in KL. I will be staying with my wife..no kids. My office in situated close to Jalan Tun Razak approximately 3.3 ...
Hello Kumar. Unfortunately Maluri is not easily reachable during peak hours. Here is my advise: 1) If you are driving, avoid city. You best bet is bandar tun razak area. 2) You may find at nice house with 2/3 bedrooms nearby. 3) You salary is ... Read More
Cost of Living in Kuwait by arindamghosh007
Dear Friends, I am an Indian senior HR professional with rich 20 years of international corporate exposure. I have got a job offer from Al-Kuwait and the salary is KD 2000 PM all inclusive HRA, TA. Internet, 2 Mobile connections are free. Well, ...
Nobody here know how you spend your money, how your appetite etc. 1) House: Furnished vs Unfurnished Bear in mind, it is hard to find cheaper than 350kd/month for furnished house. And you can either get cheap room (share with other family) lower ... Read More
Eye Clinic
Bump up this topic.. I am also looking for eye clinic.. How much is it for normal checkup here? Read More
Asian Dine Place by bornd
Hello All, Anyone can suggest me place for asian food to eat here? especially thai? I've been to oriental cuisine and it's awesome. Also has been at avenue mall food court but it is not up to my taste :( Anyone can suggest place to eat? Other ...
I've been to the avenue food court but it doesn't taste asian :'( Read More
New to Q8 :) by kmichaela1
Hi Everyone! I am Kim! I am from the US and am here in Kuwait to teach at one of the local schools. I am interested in meeting new people and enjoying being in the Middle East. I love to eat great food, run, and enjoy the beach or a pool. ...
We can arrange a meetup if you like to mix around :) Read More
Entertainment in kuwait
I am looking for outdoor/extreme activities, ie dessert activity.. any suggestion? Read More
Thinking about moving to Kuwait
You can actually can find a lot of social meetup.. :) 1) Normally your own county community organize a meetup, ie i was a bit fortunate that when I came here, the first 2 weeks was a about meeting with ppl from my country. 2) There are a few ... Read More
5 good reasons for living in Kuwait by Julien
Hi, if someone asks you the best reasons for making the choice to live and stay in Kuwait, what would be your top 5? Thanks in advance for participating, Julien
1) More family time. But if you are single and haven't join any social group (like me), this place is just like a hell. 2) Small county - Easy to go anywhere. 3) Medical system is good. 4) Kuwaiti is nice and friendly. If you find they are not that ... Read More
Activity group (Basketball, scuba, running, cafe's) by mo.mughrabi
Hi all, Kuwait can be a bit boring if you are alone. So, I had an idea few months ago to post in public forums about putting a basketball team together, every Friday morning, surprisingly a lot of people showed up and it was a huge success. Now ...
is there any running club? Read More
Asian Dine Place by bornd
Hello All, Anyone can suggest me place for asian food to eat here? especially thai? I've been to oriental cuisine and it's awesome. Also has been at avenue mall food court but it is not up to my taste :( Anyone can suggest place to eat? Other ...
Ive tried china house.. and yeah.. it's great.. :) looking to try sawadee at salmiya.. anyone want to join? :D Read More
Asian Dine Place
Hello All, Anyone can suggest me place for asian food to eat here? especially thai? I've been to oriental cuisine and it's awesome. Also has been at avenue mall food court but it is not up to my taste :( Anyone can suggest place to eat? Other ... Read More
My evenings is full of lonliness by honeybee2012
Hi My evenings is full of lonliness ; even doing jogging ;trying to change the mood ; done shopping ; done all i can do any suggestions : dont tell get married soon ; i love that any other suggestions
come join us on coffee tmrw :) Read More
Considering offer for Kuwait employment by Indiolush
I am considering employment in Kuwait from a US company for 98,670 is annually. Is this a good salary in Kuwait as I know the cost of living is higher.
It is depend on how you spend your money. Some people see it as a big amount but some people don't. Lets do out math here. and round it to 100k usd. So it will be about 25k kd @ approximately 2k kd per month. Arrange your portion accordingly - ... Read More
My evenings is full of lonliness by honeybee2012
Hi My evenings is full of lonliness ; even doing jogging ;trying to change the mood ; done shopping ; done all i can do any suggestions : dont tell get married soon ; i love that any other suggestions
we will be having gathering tmrw at ikea avenue.. come join us :) Read More
Rent or Buy a car? (driving in Kuwait for the first time) by morningdue
Hello, What are the advantages of renting/leasing a car, compared to buying one? Thanks
If you have a plan to stay for a long time, get a car.. if not, rent should be fine.. Read More
You've Got Mail! Understand Kuwait's Mail System by legacy
Hello boys & Girls, me again :P I've noticed quite a few people have been asking about shipping items into Kuwait etc. teachers supplies and other knick-knacks and what nots. first rule off the bat that some people may not know is; Kuwait is not ...
Is there any way I can send a parcel outside kuwait? I try to lookout for few international shipping but look like it required for company detail/company account, Read More
My evenings is full of lonliness by honeybee2012
Hi My evenings is full of lonliness ; even doing jogging ;trying to change the mood ; done shopping ; done all i can do any suggestions : dont tell get married soon ; i love that any other suggestions
same as me.. have going in and out many times.. but still feel boring :( Read More
Visa paperwork outside of home country by katieray
Hi, I'm an American currently living and working in Seoul, Korea. I will be teaching in Kuwait in September and have been working on the documents I need for my work visa. I was under the impression you need to get the police clearance from your ...
Forgot to mention, please check with your sponsor if you are given a business visa or commercial visa. If it's commercial visa, it's not needed to wait for NOC and you may proceed with PCC. Read More
Visa paperwork outside of home country by katieray
Hi, I'm an American currently living and working in Seoul, Korea. I will be teaching in Kuwait in September and have been working on the documents I need for my work visa. I was under the impression you need to get the police clearance from your ...
It's more pain when you are graduated from other country.. :) I myself a singaporean, graduated from Malaysia university.. I've to make sure it's first notarized by Malaysia authority and embassy in Malaysia before bring it back to Singapore. ... Read More
Visa paperwork outside of home country by katieray
Hi, I'm an American currently living and working in Seoul, Korea. I will be teaching in Kuwait in September and have been working on the documents I need for my work visa. I was under the impression you need to get the police clearance from your ...
Yes. I myself haven't done PCC due to offer letter not yet released. And It will take at least 10 working days for Singapore police to verify my status. I'm not sure about US, but for us, Ministry of Foreign Affair and Kuwait Embassy should be ... Read More
Visa paperwork outside of home country by katieray
Hi, I'm an American currently living and working in Seoul, Korea. I will be teaching in Kuwait in September and have been working on the documents I need for my work visa. I was under the impression you need to get the police clearance from your ...
Hi.. The same happened to me. Yes, you need to get the PCC from your original country. Here might be help: 1) Degree attested by MFA country of origin & embassy in country of origin 2) Police clearance by country of origin and attested by MFA ... Read More
Soccer (FooTball ) by Napoleone
Hello , I am Italian , i am new, i am here in kuwait with my family & i would like to know if there is any place where i can play football ( to join a group , a tournament etc ) Any suggestion ?
I won't be there until september.. but please do count me in :) Read More
Soccer (FooTball ) by Napoleone
Hello , I am Italian , i am new, i am here in kuwait with my family & i would like to know if there is any place where i can play football ( to join a group , a tournament etc ) Any suggestion ?
can include futsal as well? :P Read More
Supervisor Visa to 11 Years Exp Engineer...How Bad is that? by pranavd1980
Dear Friends, Recently I have had a shock when one of my Kuwaiti friend told me after seeing My passport. which says "Supervisor/Observer [b](Marakkab)[/b] Visa" stamped there. He told me that it suppose to be Engineers [b](Mohandish)[/b] ...
Am I also eligible for mohandis visa? as a software engineer - which diff from civil engineer.. Read More
New in Kuwait, looking for share accomodation in Salmiya? by Mona-lisa27
Hi all, Just landed in Kuwait yesterday I have staff accomodation for a month. But i now allready want to start to look for accommodation that is affordable (and i would not mind sharing) If any ladies is interested please contact me. (Esoecially if ...
It's a bit waste for me to buy furniture since I'm not really sure if I want to continue after the attachment end. It's more to serviced apartment than normal - with gym, swimming pool, internet, satellite tv included and 3x daily maid / week ... Read More
New in Kuwait, looking for share accomodation in Salmiya? by Mona-lisa27
Hi all, Just landed in Kuwait yesterday I have staff accomodation for a month. But i now allready want to start to look for accommodation that is affordable (and i would not mind sharing) If any ladies is interested please contact me. (Esoecially if ...
I've been quoted 400kwd for 1 bedroom serviced apartment in salmiya.. :( Read More
Potential Expat by bornd
My company offered an attachment at customer site in Kuwait City. My question is: 1) How long is that for RP to be issued? I believed that we won't be allowed to rent a house/apartment without RP. 2) I'm given 300/month for accomodation and ...
So, getting a car will be meaningless for me rite? Read More
need advise by sweetjo87
how can i recover from being homesick. i could not help but to think my life before way back home. :(:(:(:(:(:(
Anyway, where are you staying sweetjo? Read More
Potential Expat by bornd
My company offered an attachment at customer site in Kuwait City. My question is: 1) How long is that for RP to be issued? I believed that we won't be allowed to rent a house/apartment without RP. 2) I'm given 300/month for accomodation and ...
It tht mean i need to retake all test? Read More
need advise by sweetjo87
how can i recover from being homesick. i could not help but to think my life before way back home. :(:(:(:(:(:(
just consider kuwait as your new home :P Read More
Potential Expat by bornd
My company offered an attachment at customer site in Kuwait City. My question is: 1) How long is that for RP to be issued? I believed that we won't be allowed to rent a house/apartment without RP. 2) I'm given 300/month for accomodation and ...
And if my license is already an international license? or Kuwait didn't acknowledge international license? Read More
Potential Expat by bornd
My company offered an attachment at customer site in Kuwait City. My question is: 1) How long is that for RP to be issued? I believed that we won't be allowed to rent a house/apartment without RP. 2) I'm given 300/month for accomodation and ...
Is it better to rent a car and drive or just take a cab? As I planned to convert my license if its better. is it need for RP to drive in Kuwait? Read More
Potential Expat by bornd
My company offered an attachment at customer site in Kuwait City. My question is: 1) How long is that for RP to be issued? I believed that we won't be allowed to rent a house/apartment without RP. 2) I'm given 300/month for accomodation and ...
Cab will be no problem since It's claimable. :) So, I guess Farwaniya will be a good place for single expat rite? Read More
Potential Expat by bornd
My company offered an attachment at customer site in Kuwait City. My question is: 1) How long is that for RP to be issued? I believed that we won't be allowed to rent a house/apartment without RP. 2) I'm given 300/month for accomodation and ...
Hi Aurelie, Thanks for the suggestion. However, I'm not looking for house but comparing in which I can get a better offer. cheers Read More
Potential Expat by bornd
My company offered an attachment at customer site in Kuwait City. My question is: 1) How long is that for RP to be issued? I believed that we won't be allowed to rent a house/apartment without RP. 2) I'm given 300/month for accomodation and ...
1) Hurm.. maybe google search is outdated :P 2) yeah, I'm not sure either, just being informed that it's zain hq. So, is there any suggestion for furnished apt/studio near the office? if it's within walking distance, then I can use that 100kwd for ... Read More
Potential Expat by bornd
My company offered an attachment at customer site in Kuwait City. My question is: 1) How long is that for RP to be issued? I believed that we won't be allowed to rent a house/apartment without RP. 2) I'm given 300/month for accomodation and ...
1) yeah, agree with that. As they requested me to be there by august, but my concern is PR as I believed i won't be allowed to rent a house without a PR. 2) Studio should fine for me as I am staying alone. I will be working at Zain HQ. Kuwait City. ... Read More
Potential Expat
My company offered an attachment at customer site in Kuwait City. My question is: 1) How long is that for RP to be issued? I believed that we won't be allowed to rent a house/apartment without RP. 2) I'm given 300/month for accomodation and ... Read More